Business licences

Every business, occupation or trade that is carried on with the intention of making a profit within City of Airdrie limits requires a business licence issued by the City of Airdrie, as regulated under the Business Licence Bylaw.

Updates to the Business Licence Bylaw

On Dec. 2, 2019, City Council approved changes to the Business Licence Bylaw. The changes include a modest increase to Business Licence fees which will become effective Jan., 1, 2020. For more information on the new fees, please see below.

Service during COVID-19

The City of Airdrie is providing all of its regular services (permits, licencing, etc), but in a modified fashion to minimize risk to the public and employees.

Our goal remains to support our business community and clients that rely on our services. 

Things are constantly and rapidly evolving, but we are committed to keeping you informed with the most up-to-date information. Please be sure to check www.airdrie.ca/COVID for updates.

Other permits & regulations

Depending on your business type and location, you may require permits from other City of Airdrie departments (Building Inspections, Planning, etc.) and government agencies (i.e. Alberta Health Services). This includes home businesses.

Please see the info sheet specific to your business below or use the BizPaL tool.

Business licences overview

Business location

1. Resident Businesses - Businesses based/located within Airdrie city limits.
2. Non-Resident Businesses - Businesses located outside Airdrie city limits that are operating/conducting business in Airdrie.

Business type

Select your specific business type below to learn more about what's required before you apply.

*If you are purchasing an existing Airdrie business, please contact our Business Licensing Officer at 403.948.8800 prior to applying for a business license.

When to apply

You can apply for a business licence at any time before opening/operating your business in Airdrie. Ideally, any other permits and licences should be obtained before applying for your business licence.

Business licence fees

The cost for an annual business licence is:

Fees (excluding temporary businesses) are pro-rated to half the fee on July 1.

IMPORTANT NOTE: There are additional business licencing requirements and fees for Taxi, ride share & limousine businesses and massage therapist practitioners.

How to apply

Two ways to apply

1. Online: Click here.
You must create a myAIRDRIE account. Already have a myAIRDRIE account? Log in and add Business Licencing to your account.

2. In person at:

• City Hall, Licencing & Permitting Counter - 400 Main Street SE, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Municipal Police Building - 2 Highland Park Way NE, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Payment types

• Online: Visa, MasterCard
• In person: Cash, Debit, cheque

Processing time

Most licences are processed in five to 10 working days. However, if your business requires other permits, this process could take longer and is subject to the processing times of other permitting departments and agencies.

Term of license

Business licences are valid for one year, from January through December, with the exception of taxi licences which expire March 31.

Business licence renewals

Paper business licence renewals are automatically mailed out each January. This paper renewal will include the log-in information you need to create your myAIRDRIE web account.

myAIRDRIE

Business start-up assistance

Visit Starting a business or Business resources for more information about starting a business and where to get help.